Big Take

Max Chafkin, a Businessweek writer who dives into corporate tech, and Dina Bass, a Bloomberg reporter with a focus on Microsoft and AI, explore the fascinating journey of Excel in corporate America. They discuss its dual reputation as both a beloved productivity tool and a symbol of capitalist drudgery. The conversation highlights Excel's cultural impact, its half-billion users, and how Microsoft’s strategic bundling has locked it into offices. They also evaluate competitors like Google Sheets and examine the future of Excel with emerging AI technologies.

Stacey-Marie Ishmael, Bloomberg News executive editor and crypto expert, dives into the tumultuous crypto landscape. She discusses Bitcoin's wild journey from record highs to significant sell-offs and recovers above $90,000. Key topics include macroeconomic influences, the impact of Bitcoin ETFs on market access, and the Trump administration's role in crypto enthusiasm. Stacey-Marie compares the current market to past crashes, highlighting differences in regulation and investor behavior. The conversation is packed with insights into what might sustain a crypto rebound.

Shawna Kwan, a real estate reporter in Hong Kong, and Jenni Marsh, a journalist focusing on Greater China politics, delve into the tragic Wong Fuk Court fire that has ignited public outrage. They discuss the dire impact on residents and highlight longstanding safety issues, including ignored complaints about flammable materials. The conversation also examines the government's response and political implications, including fears in Beijing about public unrest and the demand for an independent inquiry to ensure accountability.

Nick Wadhams, Bloomberg's national security expert, dives deep into the complex U.S.-Russia-Ukraine relations. He discusses the recent diplomatic moves, with Trump envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow and Zelensky in France, highlighting Russia's current battlefield advantages. Wadhams reveals insights into the evolving peace plan and key incentives, as well as Zelensky's urgent appeals for military support from Europe. The conversation sheds light on the intricate balance of power and the challenges Ukraine faces moving forward.

Lauren Houston, founder of Sunny Heart Doodles, shares her journey in breeding Australian Labradoodles with a strong social media presence. Journalist Allie Conti dives into the explosive growth of the doodle industry, discussing both its billion-dollar market and the criticisms faced from purebred advocates. They explore the origins of doodles, their rise in popularity, and how social media has played a pivotal role in their acceptance. Will the doodle craze continue to flourish, or have they already peaked? Tune in for fascinating insights!

Amara Omeokwe and Enda Curran, Bloomberg reporters specializing in the Federal Reserve, discuss the crucial qualities needed in the next Fed chair. They dive into how Trump's dissatisfaction with Jerome Powell has shifted the search, highlighting prominent candidates like Kevin Hassett and Michelle Bowman. The duo addresses concerns about potential threats to Fed independence, the political landscape, and the economic challenges awaiting the new chair. They also explore the power dynamics within the Fed and how the upcoming nominee must navigate complex institutional pressures.

James Mayger, a senior Bloomberg reporter based in Beijing, and Isabel Reynolds, Tokyo bureau chief for Bloomberg, dive into the rising tensions between Japan and China following Prime Minister Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan. They explore how this comment triggered Beijing's fierce response, the historical grievances that contribute to the conflict, and the significant economic risks for Japan, including potential boycotts. They also discuss the legal implications for Japan’s military actions, mixed public reactions, and the broader political calculations involved.

Nancy Cook, a senior political reporter at Bloomberg, and Chris Strohm, a DOJ reporter for Bloomberg, delve into Trump’s aggressive retribution agenda. They discuss the recent dismissal of criminal cases against Comey and Letitia James, highlighting how these fits into Trump's strategy against political adversaries. The conversation reveals the Trump administration's use of federal power to target opponents, the erosion of DOJ norms, and the troubling implications for future administrations. Expect a robust analysis of upcoming legal challenges and the changing landscape of U.S. politics.

Nancy Cook, a seasoned White House reporter for Bloomberg, and Dan Flatley, a U.S. Treasury expert, dive into Trump's controversial plan to distribute $2,000 checks funded by tariff revenues. They discuss the potential inflation risks of such stimulus and the skepticism among Republicans and the Treasury. Cook highlights Trump's aim for political branding, while Flatley raises concerns about pending Supreme Court challenges that could jeopardize the revenue needed for these checks. The conversation uncovers the broader implications for Trump's economic agenda ahead of the midterms.

Catherine Griffiths, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in workplace culture, dives into her investigation of harassment at Oxford University. She reveals a troubling pattern of institutional neglect, where allegations against male academics often go unaddressed. Discussing specific cases such as Sumitra Dutta and Myles Houston, she highlights the barriers women face when reporting misconduct. Griffiths emphasizes the need for stronger accountability measures and compares Oxford's response to other universities, calling for significant reform.